Spinal implant system and method

ABSTRACT

A spinal implant includes a body having opposite first and second end walls and opposite first and second side walls. The side walls each extend from the first end wall to the second end wall. A first cap is coupled to top ends of the walls. A second cap is coupled to bottom ends of the walls. The implant includes an opening extending through the caps such that the first cap defines a first ledge extending from the walls to the opening and the second cap defines a second ledge extending from the walls to the opening. Systems and methods of use are disclosed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to medical devices for thetreatment of musculoskeletal disorders, and more particularly to aspinal implant system including an implant and an instrument configuredto deliver the implant during a surgical procedure.

BACKGROUND

Spinal pathologies and disorders such as scoliosis and other curvatureabnormalities, kyphosis, degenerative disc disease, disc herniation,osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, stenosis, tumor and fracture may resultfrom factors including trauma, disease and degenerative conditionscaused by injury and aging. Spinal disorders typically result insymptoms including deformity, pain, nerve damage, and partial orcomplete loss of mobility.

Non-surgical treatments, such as medication, rehabilitation and exercisecan be effective, however, may fail to relieve the symptoms associatedwith these disorders. Surgical treatment of these spinal disordersincludes correction, fusion, fixation, discectomy, laminectomy andimplantable prosthetics. As part of these surgical treatments, spinalconstructs, such as, for example, bone fasteners, plates and interbodydevices can be used to provide stability to a treated region. Forexample, during surgical treatment, interbody implants can be deliveredto a surgical site for fixation with bone to immobilize a joint. Thebone fasteners extend through a plate and/or an interbody device andinto bone to fix at least a portion of the plate and/or the interbodydevice to the bone. This disclosure describes an improvement over theseprior art technologies.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure, a surgical instrument comprises a sleeve extending along alongitudinal axis between opposite proximal and distal ends. An innersurface of the sleeve defines a passageway. The distal end defines anengagement portion. The engagement portion comprises an engagementsurface extending from a first end to an opposite second end. Theengagement portion comprises a peg extending outwardly from the firstend. The engagement portion comprises an opening extending through thesecond end. The opening is in communication with the passageway. A knobis coupled to the proximal end of the sleeve. A shaft comprises aproximal end and an opposite distal end. The distal end of the shaftcomprises a mating portion. The mating portion extends through theopening. The proximal end of the shaft is coupled to the knob. The knobis rotatable relative to the sleeve to rotate the shaft relative to thesleeve.

In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure, a surgical system includes a spinal implant comprisingopposite first and second vertebral engaging surfaces. The implantcomprises opposite posterior and anterior surfaces each extending fromthe first vertebral engaging surface to the second vertebral engagingsurface. The anterior surface comprises spaced apart first and secondcavities. A surgical instrument comprises a sleeve extending along alongitudinal axis between opposite proximal and distal ends. An innersurface of the sleeve defines a passageway. The distal end defines anengagement portion. The engagement portion comprises an engagementsurface extending from a first end to an opposite second end. Theengagement portion comprises a peg extending outwardly from the firstend. The peg is positioned in the first cavity. The engagement portioncomprises an opening extending through the second end. The opening is incommunication with the passageway. A knob is coupled to the proximal endof the sleeve. A shaft comprises a proximal end and an opposite distalend. The distal end of the shaft comprises a mating portion. Theproximal end of the shaft is coupled to the knob. The knob is rotatablerelative to the sleeve to translate the shaft relative to the sleevebetween a first orientation in which the mating portion is positionedwithin the passageway and a second orientation in which the matingportion mates with a mating surface of the second cavity.

In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure, a surgical instrument comprises an outer sleeve extendingalong a longitudinal axis between opposite proximal and distal ends. Aninner surface of the sleeve defines a passageway. The distal end definesan engagement portion. The engagement portion comprises an engagementsurface extending from a first end to an opposite second end. The firstend comprises a first cavity in communication with the passageway. Thesecond end comprises a second cavity. An inner sleeve is rotatablypositioned within the passageway. The inner sleeve comprises an outersurface that engages the inner surface of the outer sleeve and an innersurface defining a female thread form. A knob is coupled to the proximalend of the sleeve. The knob is rotatable relative to outer sleeve torotate the inner sleeve relative to the outer sleeve.

In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure, a spinal implant includes a body comprising opposite firstand second end walls and opposite first and second side walls. The sidewalls each extend from the first end wall to the second end wall. Afirst cap is coupled to top ends of the walls. A second cap is coupledto bottom ends of the walls. The implant comprising an opening extendingthrough the caps such that the first cap defines a first ledge extendingfrom the walls to the opening and the second cap defines a second ledgeextending from the walls to the opening.

In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure, a spinal implant includes a body comprising opposite firstand second end walls and opposite first and second side walls. The sidewalls each extend from the first end wall to the second end wall. Thefirst side wall defines a first window. The second side wall define asecond window. Inner surfaces of the walls define a cavity. A core ispositioned in the cavity such that the core is viewable through thewindows. A first cap is coupled to top ends of the walls. A second capis coupled to bottom ends of the walls. The implant comprises an openingextending through the caps such that the first cap defines a first ledgeextending from the walls to the opening and the second cap defines asecond ledge extending from the walls to the opening.

In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure, a spinal implant includes a body comprising opposite firstand second end walls and opposite first and second side walls. The sidewalls each extend from the first end wall to the second end wall. Thefirst side wall defines a first window. The second side wall defines asecond window. Inner surfaces of the walls define a cavity. A core ispositioned in the cavity such that the core is viewable through thewindows. The core has a lattice configuration. A first cap is coupled totop ends of the walls. A second cap is coupled to bottom ends of thewalls. The implant comprises an opening extending through the caps suchthat the first cap defines a first ledge extending from the walls to theopening and the second cap defines a second ledge extending from thewalls to the opening. The ledges each extend circumferentially about theopening. Bone graft is positioned between the first ledge and the secondledge. The caps each include a plurality of apertures. The apertureshave a hexagonal configuration. The core is fused together with the bodyand the caps. The cavity has a maximum diameter that is greater than amaximum diameter of the opening.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will become more readily apparent from thespecific description accompanied by the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a side view of first and second components of a spinal system,in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a side, cross-sectional view of the first component of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1 coupled to one embodiment of a secondcomponent of the spinal system, in accordance with the principles of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a perspective, breakaway view, in part phantom, of the firstcomponent of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective, breakaway view of the first component of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1, with parts separated;

FIG. 4A is a side, breakaway view of the first component of the spinalsystem shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a side, cross-sectional, breakaway view of the firstcomponent of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a side view, in part phantom, of the first component of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a side view, in part phantom, of the first component of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a perspective, breakaway view of the first component of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the first and second components of the spinalsystem shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the first and second components of the spinalsystem shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a side view of the first and second components of the spinalsystem shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the first and second components of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1 disposed with vertebrae, with the firstand second components of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1 in variousorientations;

FIG. 12 is a perspective, breakaway view of one embodiment of the distalend of the first component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a perspective, breakaway view of one embodiment of the distalend of the first component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a side view of one embodiment of the second component of thespinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principles of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a side, breakaway, cross-sectional view of the secondcomponent shown in FIG. 14 coupled to the first component of the spinalsystem shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 16 is a side, breakaway, cross-sectional view of the secondcomponent shown in FIG. 14 coupled to the first component of the spinalsystem shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 17 is a perspective, breakaway view of the second component shownin FIG. 14 coupled to the first component of the spinal system shown inFIG. 1;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 perspective, breakaway view of one embodiment of the firstcomponent of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the first component shown in FIG. 19coupled to the second component shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the first component shown in FIG. 19coupled to the second component shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the first component shown in FIG. 19coupled to the second component shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the first component shown in FIG. 19coupled to the second component shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a perspective, breakaway view of one embodiment of the firstcomponent of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a top, breakaway view of the first component shown in FIG. 25coupled to the second component shown in FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is a top, breakaway view of the second component shown in FIG.28 coupled to the first component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 30 is a top, breakaway view of the second component shown in FIG.28 coupled to the first component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 31 is a top, breakaway view of the second component shown in FIG.28 coupled to the first component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 32 is a top, breakaway view of the second component shown in FIG.28 coupled to the first component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 33 is a top, breakaway view of one embodiment of the firstcomponent of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1 coupled to one embodimentof the second component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 34 is a top, breakaway view of one embodiment of the firstcomponent of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1 coupled to one embodimentof the second component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35 is a top, breakaway view of one embodiment of the component ofthe spinal system shown in FIG. 1 coupled to one embodiment of thesecond component of the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordancewith the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the second component shown in FIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of the second componentshown in FIG. 36;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the second component shown in FIG. 36,with parts separated;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the second component shown in FIG. 36,with parts separated;

FIG. 40A is a detailed view of a portion of the second component shownin FIG. 36;

FIG. 40B is a chart showing structural characteristics of a portion ofthe second component shown in FIG. 36;

FIG. 40C is a user interface showing structural characteristics of aportion of the second component shown in FIG. 36;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the second component shown in FIG. 36,with parts separated;

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 43 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 42;

FIG. 44 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 42;

FIG. 45 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 42;

FIG. 46 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 42;

FIG. 47 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 42;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 49 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 48;

FIG. 50 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 48;

FIG. 51 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 48;

FIG. 52 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 48;

FIG. 53 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 48;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 55 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 54;

FIG. 56 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 54;

FIG. 57 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 54;

FIG. 58 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 54;

FIG. 59 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 54;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 61 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 60;

FIG. 62 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 60;

FIG. 63 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 60;

FIG. 64 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 60;

FIG. 65 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 60;

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 67 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 66;

FIG. 68 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 66;

FIG. 69 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 66;

FIG. 70 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 66;

FIG. 71 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 66;

FIG. 72 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 73 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 72;

FIG. 74 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 72;

FIG. 75 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 72;

FIG. 76 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 72;

FIG. 77 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 72;

FIG. 78 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second componentof the spinal system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 79 is a front view of the second component shown in FIG. 78;

FIG. 80 is a top view of the second component shown in FIG. 78;

FIG. 81 is a bottom view of the second component shown in FIG. 78;

FIG. 82 is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 78; and

FIG. 83 is a rear view of the second component shown in FIG. 78.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The exemplary embodiments of the spinal system and related methods ofuse disclosed are discussed in terms of medical devices for thetreatment of musculoskeletal disorders and more particularly, in termsof a surgical system and a method for treating a spine. In someembodiments, the systems and methods of the present disclosure comprisemedical devices including surgical instruments and implants that areemployed with a surgical treatment, as described herein, for example,with a cervical, thoracic, lumbar and/or sacral region of a spine.

In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes a spinalimplant having graft containment overhangs. The overhangs grip the graftto prevent graft loss during impaction. In some embodiments, the implantincludes a porous lattice optimized for strength, while allowing a largegraft volume to be disposed between the graft containment overhangs. Insome embodiments, the implant includes screw pockets that are completelyenclosed to prevent bone screws that are inserted into the pockets frominterfering with graft, and vice versa.

In some embodiments, the implant includes a solid body having edges,markers, a nose and inserter and bone screw attachment geometry. Theimplant includes a core configured to be positioned within a cavity ofthe body. The core includes a structural lattice that reduces stiffnessand opacity, while maintaining strength. The implant includes top andbottom caps that are each coupled to the body when the core ispositioned within the body. In some embodiments, at least one of thecaps includes a trabecular like structure having an interconnectedporosity that is optimized for ingrowth and ongrowth. In someembodiments, the caps are fused with the core and the body to preventdelamination of the implant. In some embodiments, the structural latticeof the core is a diamond lattice that is produced by 3D printing toprovide exceptional buildability, exceptional strength, reduced internalstress, and fit within a variety of spinal implant type geometries.

The surgical system includes an inserter configured to insert theimplant between vertebrae during a surgical procedure using a selectedsurgical approach and/or at a selected angle. For example, in someembodiments, a single implant can be inserted between vertebrae usingfour different surgical approaches (e.g., an approach for AnteriorLumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF), an approach for Oblique LateralInterbody Fusion at L5-S1 (OLIF 5-1), an approach for Oblique LateralInterbody Fusion at L2-L5 (OLIF 2-5), and an approach for Direct LateralInterbody Fusion (DLIF)) with a single inserter, as discussed herein.Indeed, the inserter includes attachment geometry that is low profile,suitable for navigation, and allows multiple insertion angles anddesigns. That is, a single inserter may be used to deliver severaldifferent implants to a target site using different surgical approachesand/or at different angles. In some embodiments, the inserter includes aratchet mechanism that prevents undesired disengagement of the implantfrom the inserter before and during impaction.

In some embodiments, the implant includes an arced surface configuredfor engagement with an arced surface of the inserter to couple theinserter to the implant. In some embodiments, a peg and a shaft of theinserter are positioned within cavities, such as, for example, threadedcavities of the implant when the arced surface of the inserter engagesthe arced surface of the implant. Lines that intersect end points of thearced surface of the implant and an arced center of the arced surface ofthe implant can be flipped. As such, if the implant is attached to ahandle of the inserter, the given angle of attachment will change.Indeed, the arced surface of the implant can be flipped after theinserter is coupled to the implant to couple the inserter to the implantsuch that the insertion angle of the inserter changes. In someembodiments, the peg and the shaft of the inserter are configured to bepositioned in the threaded cavities of the implant before and after theinserter is flipped. In some embodiments, the geometry of an implantconfigured for use in an OLIF 5-1 procedure and the geometry of animplant configured for use in an OLIF 2-5 procedure allow both implantsto be inserted using a single inserter, thus allowing for furtherinstrument consolidation. That is, the arced surface of the singleinserter can match the arced surface of the implant configured for usein an OLIF 5-1 procedure and the arced surface of the implant configuredfor use in an OLIF 2-5 procedure. The peg and the rod of the inserterare positioned in the threaded cavities of the implant configured foruse in an OLIF 5-1 when the arced surface of the inserter engages thearced surface of the implant configured for use in an OLIF 5-1 procedureand the rod and peg of the inserter are positioned in the threadedcavities of the implant configured for use in an OLIF 2-5 procedure whenthe arced surface of the inserter engages the arced surface of theimplant configured for use in an OLIF 2-5 procedure. In someembodiments, the peg of the inserter provides connection strengthbetween the inserter and the implant.

In some embodiments, the inserter engages the implant such that accessto outer bone screws that extend through the implant are accessible whenthe inserter engages the implant, as discussed herein. In someembodiments, the inserter includes flat contacts that engage a surfaceof the implant while the rod and peg of the inserter are positioned inthe threaded cavities of the implant to couple the inserter to theimplant.

In some embodiments, the features of the inserter and the features ofthe implants are reversed. For example, the implant can include one or aplurality of pegs, such as, for example, threaded pegs that extendoutwardly from a body of the implant. The pegs may be received withincavities of the inserter. An arced surface of the inserter engages anarced surface of the implant when the pegs are received within thecavities to couple the inserter to the implant. In some embodiments,this allows use of larger threads. In some embodiments, a sleeveincluding a female thread form is rotatably positioned within one of thecavities of the inserter such that the female thread form mates with amale thread form of one of the pegs of the inserter to couple theinserter to the implant, as discussed herein.

In some embodiments, the arced surface of the inserter and the arcedsurface of the implant can be reversed. For example, in someembodiments, the inserter can include a concavely curved surface thatengages a convexly curved surface of the implant to couple the inserterto the implant. Alternatively, the inserter can include a convexlycurved surface that engages a concavely curved surface of the implant tocouple the inserter to the implant.

In some embodiments, the arced surface of the implant can include two ormore cavities configured for disposal of the peg of the inserter and theshaft of the inserter. For example, in one embodiment, the implantincludes two cavities configured for disposal of the peg of the inserterand the shaft of the inserter. In one embodiment, the implant includesthree cavities configured for disposal of the peg of the inserter andthe shaft of the inserter such that one of the cavities is empty orunoccupied when the peg of the inserter and the shaft of the inserterare disposed in the two other cavities. This allows the implant to bedisposed at three different angles relative to the inserter, asdiscussed herein. In some embodiment, the cavities are all positionedalong the same arc path of the implant, the arc path of the implantcoinciding with an arc center of the inserter. In some embodiments, atleast one of the cavities is threaded.

In some embodiments, the arced surface of the inserter includes acentral cutout configured for disposal of a tab, such as, for example, aplate that is coupled to the implant such that the inserter can be usedto insert the implant with the plate attached to the implant, asdiscussed herein. In some embodiments, the arced surface of the inserterincludes a central cutout configured to allow access to an intrinsicscrew that extends into or through the implant such that the intrinsicscrew can be rotated relative to the implant while the intrinsic screwextends into or through the implant and the inserter is attached to theimplant.

In some embodiments, the inserter includes a ratchet knob comprising afirst member or plate, such as, for example, a floating plate thatengages grooves on a second plate of the inserter. In particular, aspring pushes the floating plate such that extensions of the floatingplate engage the grooves on the second plate to prevent undesiredloosening of the implant upon impaction. As a user rotates the ratchetknob, the float plate rides in the grooves, creating resistance similarto a ratchet, as discussed herein.

In some embodiments, the surgical system of the present disclosure maybe employed to treat spinal disorders such as, for example, degenerativedisc disease, disc herniation, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis,stenosis, scoliosis and other curvature abnormalities, kyphosis, tumorand fractures. In some embodiments, the surgical system of the presentdisclosure may be employed with other osteal and bone relatedapplications, including those associated with diagnostics andtherapeutics. In some embodiments, the disclosed surgical system may bealternatively employed in a surgical treatment with a patient in a proneor supine position, and/or employ various surgical approaches to thespine, including anterior, posterior, posterior mid-line, directlateral, postero-lateral, and/or antero-lateral approaches, and in otherbody regions. The surgical system of the present disclosure may also bealternatively employed with procedures for treating the lumbar,cervical, thoracic, sacral and pelvic regions of a spinal column. Thesurgical system of the present disclosure may also be used on animals,bone models and other non-living substrates, such as, for example, intraining, testing and demonstration.

The surgical system of the present disclosure may be understood morereadily by reference to the following detailed description of theembodiments taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures,which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that thisapplication is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditionsor parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminologyused herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments byway of example only and is not intended to be limiting. In someembodiments, as used in the specification and including the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, andreference to a particular numerical value includes at least thatparticular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Rangesmay be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” oneparticular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particularvalue. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes fromthe one particular value and/or to the other particular value.Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of theantecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular valueforms another embodiment. It is also understood that all spatialreferences, such as, for example, horizontal, vertical, top, upper,lower, bottom, left and right, are for illustrative purposes only andcan be varied within the scope of the disclosure. For example, thereferences “upper” and “lower” are relative and used only in the contextto the other, and are not necessarily “superior” and “inferior”.

As used in the specification and including the appended claims,“treating” or “treatment” of a disease or condition refers to performinga procedure that may include administering one or more drugs to apatient (human, normal or otherwise or other mammal), employingimplantable devices, and/or employing instruments that treat thedisease, such as, for example, microdiscectomy instruments used toremove portions bulging or herniated discs and/or bone spurs, in aneffort to alleviate signs or symptoms of the disease or condition.Alleviation can occur prior to signs or symptoms of the disease orcondition appearing, as well as after their appearance. Thus, treatingor treatment includes preventing or prevention of disease or undesirablecondition (e.g., preventing the disease from occurring in a patient, whomay be predisposed to the disease but has not yet been diagnosed ashaving it). In addition, treating or treatment does not require completealleviation of signs or symptoms, does not require a cure, andspecifically includes procedures that have only a marginal effect on thepatient. Treatment can include inhibiting the disease, e.g., arrestingits development, or relieving the disease, e.g., causing regression ofthe disease. For example, treatment can include reducing acute orchronic inflammation; alleviating pain and mitigating and inducingre-growth of new ligament, bone and other tissues; as an adjunct insurgery; and/or any repair procedure. In some embodiments, as used inthe specification and including the appended claims, the term “tissue”includes soft tissue, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and/or bone unlessspecifically referred to otherwise.

The following discussion includes a description of a surgical systemincluding implants, related components and methods of employing thesurgical system in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure. Alternate embodiments are also disclosed. Reference is madein detail to the exemplary embodiments of a surgical system 100, whichare illustrated in the accompanying figures.

The components of surgical system 100 can be fabricated frombiologically acceptable materials suitable for medical applications,including metals, synthetic polymers, ceramics and bone material and/ortheir composites. For example, the components of surgical system 100,individually or collectively, can be fabricated from materials such asstainless steel alloys, aluminum, commercially pure titanium, titaniumalloys, Grade 5 titanium, super-elastic titanium alloys, cobalt-chromealloys, superelastic metallic alloys (e.g., Nitinol, superelasto-plastic metals, such as GUM METAL®), ceramics and compositesthereof such as calcium phosphate (e.g., SKELITE™), thermoplastics suchas polyaryletherketone (PAEK) including polyetheretherketone (PEEK),polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) and polyetherketone (PEK), carbon-PEEKcomposites, PEEK-BaSO₄ polymeric rubbers, polyethylene terephthalate(PET), fabric, silicone, polyurethane, silicone-polyurethane copolymers,polymeric rubbers, polyolefin rubbers, hydrogels, semi-rigid and rigidmaterials, elastomers, rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, thermosetelastomers, elastomeric composites, rigid polymers includingpolyphenylene, polyamide, polyimide, polyetherimide, polyethylene,epoxy, bone material including autograft, allograft, xenograft ortransgenic cortical and/or corticocancellous bone, and tissue growth ordifferentiation factors, partially resorbable materials, such as, forexample, composites of metals and calcium-based ceramics, composites ofPEEK and calcium based ceramics, composites of PEEK with resorbablepolymers, totally resorbable materials, such as, for example, calciumbased ceramics such as calcium phosphate, tri-calcium phosphate (TCP),hydroxyapatite (HA)-TCP, calcium sulfate, or other resorbable polymerssuch as polyaetide, polyglycolide, polytyrosine carbonate,polycaroplaetohe and their combinations.

Various components of surgical system 100 may have material composites,including the above materials, to achieve various desiredcharacteristics such as strength, rigidity, elasticity, compliance,biomechanical performance, durability and radiolucency or imagingpreference. The components of surgical system 100, individually orcollectively, may also be fabricated from a heterogeneous material suchas a combination of two or more of the above-described materials. Thecomponents of surgical system 100 may be monolithically formed,integrally connected or include fastening elements and/or instruments,as described herein.

Surgical system 100 is employed, for example, with a fully open surgicalprocedure, a minimally invasive procedure including percutaneoustechniques, and mini-open surgical techniques to deliver and introduceinstrumentation and/or one or more spinal implants, such as, forexample, one or more components of a bone fastener, at a surgical siteof a patient, which includes, for example, a spine. In some embodiments,the spinal implant can include one or more components of one or morespinal constructs, such as, for example, interbody devices, interbodycages, bone fasteners, spinal rods, tethers, connectors, plates and/orbone graft, and can be employed with various surgical proceduresincluding surgical treatment of a cervical, thoracic, lumbar and/orsacral region of a spine.

Surgical system 100 includes an implant, such as, for example, a spinalimplant 102 and an instrument, such as, for example, a surgicalinstrument 104 configured to insert implant 102 into an intervertebralspace defined by adjacent vertebrae, as discussed herein. In someembodiments, instrument 104 may be used to insert implant 102 and/orother implants that are similar to implant 102 into an intervertebralspace defined by adjacent vertebrae. For example, instrument 104 isshown in FIG. 1 with instrument 104 coupled to implant 102 to allowinstrument 104 to insert implant 102 into an intervertebral space.Instrument 104 is shown in FIG. 2 with instrument coupled to an implant106 that is similar to implant 104 to allow instrument 104 to insertimplant 106 into an intervertebral space. However, it should beunderstood that instrument 104 may be used to insert implants inaddition to implants 102, 106 into an intervertebral space, as discussedherein.

Instrument 104 includes a sleeve 108 extending along a longitudinal axisX1 between a proximal end 110 and an opposite distal end 112. An innersurface 114 of sleeve 108 defines a passageway 116. Passageway 116 iscoaxial with axis X1. End 110 is coupled to a handle 118 of instrument104 such that a body 125 of handle 118 is fixed relative to sleeve 108.In some embodiments, handle 118 has a maximum diameter that is greaterthan a maximum diameter of sleeve 108 to facilitate gripping of handle118 by a hand of a medical practitioner, for example. In someembodiments, handle 118 includes gripping features, such as, forexample, indentations and/or protrusions configured to facilitategripping. An inner surface 120 of handle 118 defines a channel 122 thatis coaxial with passageway 116 and axis X1. Channel 122 is incommunication with passageway 116 such that a shaft 124 of instrument104 extends through channel 122 and into passageway 116. Shaft 124 isrotatable relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 about axis X1, asdiscussed herein. In some embodiments, passageway 116 has a diameterthat is slightly greater than a diameter of shaft 124 such that an outersurface 126 of shaft 124 directly engages surface 114 of sleeve 108 whenshaft 124 is positioned within passageway 116. It is envisioned that theengagement of surface 126 with surface 114 maintains the orientation ofshaft 124 relative to sleeve 108 and/or handle 118 such that shaft 124remains coaxial with axis X1 when shaft 124 is positioned withinpassageway 116. That is, the engagement of surface 126 with surface 114prevents shaft 124 from extending at an acute angle relative to axis X1when shaft 124 is positioned within passageway 116. In some embodiments,passageway 116 has a diameter that is greater than a diameter of shaft124 such that surface 126 of shaft 124 is spaced apart from surface 114of shaft 124 when sleeve 108 is positioned within passageway 116. Insome embodiments, passageway 116 has a uniform diameter along an entirelength of passageway 116 and/or channel 122 has a uniform diameter alongan entire length of channel 122. In some embodiments, passageway 116and/or channel 122 may be variously shaped, such as, for example,circular, oval, oblong, triangular, square, polygonal, irregular,uniform, non-uniform, offset, staggered, undulating, arcuate, variableand/or tapered.

A proximal end 128 of shaft 124 is coupled to a knob 130 and an oppositedistal end 132 of shaft 124 includes a mating surface 132, such as, forexample, a male thread form configured to engage an implant to couplethe implant to shaft 124. In particular, the male thread form of matingsurface 132 is configured to mate with a female thread form of animplant to couple the implant to shaft 124, as discussed herein.Proximal end 128 of shaft 124 is fixed to knob 130 such that rotation ofknob 130 about axis X1 also rotates shaft 124 about axis X1, asdiscussed herein. In some embodiments, knob 130 is integrally and/ormonolithically formed with shaft 124. In some embodiments, shaft 124 iswelded to knob 130. It is envisioned that shaft 124 can be cannulated ornon-cannulated, depending upon the requirements of a particularapplication.

Distal end 112 of sleeve 108 defines an engagement portion 136comprising an engagement surface 138 extending from a first end 140 toan opposite second end 142. In some embodiments, engagement portion 136comprises a peg 144 extending outwardly from end 140 and an opening 146extending through end 136. In some embodiments, engagement portion 136does not include a peg or any other structure extending from engagementsurface 138 and engagement portion 136 includes only opening 146,wherein opening 146 can be variously positioned relative to engagementsurface 138. Opening 146 is in communication with passageway 116 suchthat shaft 124 can be translated axially along axis X1 within passageway116 to move mating surface 134 through opening 146 for engagement withan implant, as discussed herein. Peg 144 is permanently fixed relativeto surface 138. In some embodiments, opening 146 is coaxial withpassageway 116 and axis X1 and peg 144 extends at an acute anglerelative to axis X1. Peg 144 has a solid configuration that is free ofany gaps or openings to provide strength and rigidity to peg 144. Insome embodiments, peg 144 has a beveled tip 148 to facilitate insertionof peg 144 into a cavity of an implant, for example, to coupleinstrument 104 to the implant, as discussed herein.

Handle 118 includes a member, such as, for example, a plate 135 that iscoupled to body 125 of handle 118 such that plate 135 is fixed relativeto body 125. Plate 135 has a diameter that is greater than a diameter ofchannel 122. An end surface 150 of plate 135 directly engages an endsurface 152 of body 125 to couple plate 135 to body 125. In someembodiments, end surface 152 is integrally and/or monolithically formedwith end surface 150. In some embodiments, end surface 152 is welded toend surface 150 or otherwise coupled to end surface 150 to fix plate 135relative to body 125. Plate 135 includes an aperture 154 extendingthrough a thickness of plate 135 that is defined by a distance betweenend surface 150 and an opposite end surface 156. Aperture 154 is coaxialwith shaft 124 and axis X1. Proximal end 128 of shaft 124 extendsthrough aperture 154, as best shown in FIG. 4B. Plate 135 includes aplurality of spaced apart grooves 158 that are positioned radially aboutaperture 154. That is, grooves 158 extend circumferentially aboutaperture 154. Grooves 158 extend parallel to axis X1 and are eachconfigured for disposal of an extension 160 of knob 130 to preventrotation of shaft 124 relative to handle 118 and sleeve 108 about axisX1, as discussed herein.

In some embodiments, grooves 158 include a bevel 158 a to facilitateinsertion of extensions 160 into grooves 158. That is, tapered bevels158 a of grooves 158 that extend into end surface 156 have a greaterdiameter than cylindrical second portions of grooves 158 that arepositioned between end surface 156 and end surface 150. In someembodiments, extensions 160 included tapered tips 160 a configured tofacilitate insertion of extensions 160 into grooves 158. In someembodiments, tips 160 a terminate in a sharp point. In some embodiments,at least one of grooves 158 extends through end surface 156 withoutextending through end surface 150. In some embodiments, at least one ofgrooves 158 extends through end surface 156 and end surface 150. In someembodiments, plate 135 has a uniform thickness. In some embodiments,aperture 154 and/or grooves 158 variously shaped, such as, for example,circular, oval, oblong, triangular, square, polygonal, irregular,uniform, non-uniform, offset, staggered, undulating, arcuate, variableand/or tapered.

Knob 130 includes a hub 164 comprising a cylindrical body 166. Proximalend 128 of shaft 124 is coupled to a distal end of hub 164 such that end128 is fixed relative to hub 164, as best shown in FIG. 4B. In someembodiments, end 128 is integrally and/or monolithically formed with hub164. In some embodiments, end 128 is welded to hub 164 such thatrotation of hub 164 also rotates shaft 124. A gripping portion 172 ofknob 130 includes a disc 170 that is fixed to hub 164. In someembodiments, disc 170 is integrally and/or monolithically formed withgripping portion 172 such that rotation of gripping portion 172 alsorotates disc 170. In some embodiments, disc 170 is welded to grippingportion 172. In some embodiments, disc 170 is integrally and/ormonolithically formed with hub 164 such that rotation of grippingportion 172 also rotates disc 170 and hub 164. In some embodiments, disc170 is welded to hub 164. Gripping portion 172 further includes amember, such as, for example, a plate 168 that is fixed to hub 164, amember, such as, for example, a plate 170 and gripping portion 172. Insome embodiments, plate 168 is integrally and/or monolithically formedwith hub 164, plate 170 and/or gripping portion 172 such that rotationof plate 168 also rotates hub 164. In some embodiments, plate 168 iswelded to hub 164.

An inner surface 174 of gripping portion 172 defines a cavity 176. Afloating member or plate, such as, for example, a plate 178 is movablydisposed in cavity 176. Extensions 160 extend outwardly from a distalend of plate 178. Plate 168 includes an aperture 188 and plate 178includes an aperture 190. Apertures 188, 190 are each coaxial with axisX1 such that apertures 188, 190 are aligned with aperture 154 of plate135 and end 128 of shaft 124 extends through apertures 154, 188, 190 forconnection with hub 164.

Extensions 160 are configured to move through grooves 180 in plate 178and into grooves 158 of plate 135. In particular, knob 130 is rotatablebetween a first configuration in which extensions 160 are spaced apartfrom grooves 158 or only tips 160 a of extensions 160 are positionedwithin grooves 158 and a second configuration in which extensions 160are disposed in the grooves 158. That is, extensions 160 are spacedapart from grooves 158 or are only partially positioned within grooves158 when knob 130 is in the first configuration and extensions 160 arefully disposed in the grooves 158 when knob 130 is in the secondconfiguration. In some embodiments, cylindrical portions 160 b ofextensions 160 are positioned in grooves 158 when extensions 160 arefully disposed in the grooves 158 and knob 130 is in the secondconfiguration. Cylindrical portions 160 b of extensions 160 arepositioned in grooves 180 and tips 160 a of extensions 160 arepositioned outside of grooves 180 when knob 130 is in the firstconfiguration and the second configuration. Knob 130 is rotatablerelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 when knob 130 is in the firstconfiguration. Knob 130 is prevented from rotating relative to 108 andhandle 118 when knob 130 is in the second configuration. As such, shaft124 is rotatable relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 when knob 130 isin the first configuration and shaft 124 is prevented from rotatingrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 when knob 130 is in the secondconfiguration. Indeed, when only tips 160 a of extensions 160 arepositioned within grooves 158, the tapered configuration of tips 160 aallows tips 160 a to move in and out of adjacent grooves 158 as knob 130is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118. When extensions 160are inserted further into grooves 158 such that cylindrical portions 160b of extensions are positioned within grooves 158, knob 130 s preventedfrom being rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 sinceextensions 160 are prevented from moving from one of grooves 158 toanother one of grooves 158.

In some embodiments, knob 130 is biased to the second configuration by abiasing member, such as, for example, a spring 182 that is positionedabout hub 164. That is, spring 182 has a first end 184 that directlyengages disc 170 and an opposite second end 186 that directly engagesplate 178 to move plate 178 away from disc 170 such that extensions 160move through grooves 180 and into grooves 158. In some embodiments, theforce exerted by spring 182 to plate 178 is sufficient to move knob 130from the first configuration to the second configuration. In someembodiments, the force exerted by spring 182 to plate 178 isinsufficient to move knob 130 from the first configuration to the secondconfiguration. For example, in one embodiment, knob 130 will remain inthe first configuration unless and until mating surface 134 mates with amating surface of an implant, such as, for example, implant 104 orimplant 106. When mating surface 134 mates with the mating surface ofthe implant, rotation of knob 130 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118causes shaft 124 to translate axially relative to sleeve 108 and handle118. As shaft 124 translates axially relative to sleeve 108 and handle118, knob 130 translates axially relative to plate 135 to move knob 130toward plate 135 such that extensions 160 are fully disposed in thegrooves 158 and knob 130 is in the second configuration.

In assembly, operation and use, surgical system 100, similar to thesystems and methods described herein, is employed with a surgicalprocedure for treatment of a spinal disorder affecting a section of aspine of a patient, as discussed herein. The components of surgicalsystem 100 are employed with a surgical procedure for treatment of acondition or injury of an affected section of the spine, such as, forexample, vertebrae.

In use, to treat a selected section of vertebrae, a medical practitionerobtains access to a surgical site in any appropriate manner, such asthrough incision and retraction of tissues. In some embodiments,surgical system 100 can be used in any existing surgical method ortechnique including open surgery, mini-open surgery, minimally invasivesurgery and percutaneous surgical implantation, whereby vertebrae areaccessed through a mini-incision, or sleeve that provides a protectedpassageway to the area. Once access to the surgical site is obtained,the particular surgical procedure can be performed for treating thespine disorder.

An incision is made in the body of a patient and a cutting instrumentcreates a surgical pathway for implantation of components of surgicalsystem 100. A preparation instrument can be employed to prepare tissuesurfaces of vertebrae as well as for aspiration and irrigation of asurgical region. Instrument 104 is coupled to an implant, such as, forexample, an implant 192, that is configured to be inserted into a targetsite, such as, for example, an intervertebral space IS between a firstvertebra V1 and a second vertebra V2, as shown in FIG. 11. As shown inFIGS. 14-17, implant 192 includes opposite first and second vertebralengaging surfaces 194, 196. Vertebral engaging surface 194 is configuredto engage an endplate of vertebra V1 and vertebral engaging surface 196is configured to engage an endplate of vertebra V2. Implant 192 includesa posterior surface 198 and an anterior surface 200 opposite surface198. Surfaces 198, 200 each extend from surface 194 to surface 196.Surface 200 defines a cavity 202 and a cavity 204 that is spaced apartfrom cavity 202. Cavity 202 includes a female thread form 202 a andcavity 204 includes a female thread form 204 a.

In one embodiment, implant 192 is configured for use in an ALIFprocedure. Implant 192 is connected to instrument 104 by inserting peg144 into cavity 204 such that opening 146 is aligned with cavity 202, asshown in FIG. 15. Knob 130 in the first configuration when peg 144 isinserted into cavity 204 such that knob 130 is able to translate shaft124 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 along axis X1 in the directionshown by arrow A in FIG. 1 and/or the direction shown by arrow B inFIG. 1. Knob 130 is translated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 to move shaft124 from a first position in which mating surface 134 is positionedentirely within passageway 116 to a second position in which matingsurface 134 extends through opening 146 and into cavity 202, as shown inFIG. 15. Knob 130 is rotated about axis X1 in a first rotationaldirection, such as, for example, clockwise as knob 130 is translatedrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 along axis X1 in the directionshown by arrow A in FIG. 1 such that the male thread form of matingsurface 134 mates with female thread form 202 a. When the male threadform of mating surface 134 mates with female thread form 202 a, furtherrotation of knob 130 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the firstrotational direction causes shaft 124 to translate axially relative tosleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1.Because knob 130 is in the first configuration, knob 130 is rotatablerelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 to translate shaft 124 axiallyrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118. As shaft 124 translates axiallyrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown by arrow Ain FIG. 1, knob 130 translates axially relative to plate 135 in thedirection shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 to move knob 130 toward plate 135such that extensions 160 are fully disposed in the grooves 158 and knob130 is in the second configuration.

Implant 192 is guided into intervertebral space IS using instrument 104.Once implant 192 is selectively positioned within intervertebral spaceIS knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 about axisX1 in a second rotational direction, such as, for example,counterclockwise. Knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle118 about axis X1 in the second rotational direction with a forcesufficient to overcome the force of spring 182 to move knob 130 from thesecond configuration to the first configuration. As knob 130 moves fromthe second configuration to the first configuration, shaft 124 movesfrom the second position in which mating surface 134 extends throughopening 146 and into cavity 202 to the first position in which matingsurface 134 is positioned entirely within passageway 116. Peg 144 isremoved from cavity 204 when shaft 124 is in the first position.

Upon completion of a procedure, as described herein, the surgicalinstruments, assemblies and non-implanted components of surgical system100 are removed and the incision(s) are closed. One or more of thecomponents surgical system 100 can be made of radiolucent materials suchas polymers. Radiomarkers may be included for identification underx-ray, fluoroscopy, CT or other imaging techniques. In some embodiments,surgical system 100 may include one or a plurality of spinal rods,plates, connectors and/or bone fasteners for use with a single vertebrallevel or a plurality of vertebral levels.

In some embodiments, one or more bone screws, as described herein, maybe engaged with tissue in various orientations, such as, for example,series, parallel, offset, staggered and/or alternate vertebral levels.In some embodiments, one or more of the bone screws may comprisemulti-axial screws, sagittal adjusting screws, pedicle screws,mono-axial screws, uni-planar screws, facet screws, fixed screws, tissuepenetrating screws, conventional screws, expanding screws, wedges,anchors, buttons, clips, snaps, friction fittings, compressive fittings,expanding rivets, staples, nails, adhesives, posts, fixation platesand/or posts.

In one embodiment, surgical system 100 includes an agent, which may bedisposed, packed, coated or layered within, on or about the componentsand/or surfaces of surgical system 100. In some embodiments, the agentmay include bone growth promoting material, such as, for example, bonegraft to enhance fixation of the components and/or surfaces of surgicalsystem 100 with vertebrae. In some embodiments, the agent may includeone or a plurality of therapeutic agents and/or pharmacological agentsfor release, including sustained release, to treat, for example, pain,inflammation and degeneration.

As shown above, instrument 104 was used to insert implant 192 inconnection with an ALIF procedure. To demonstrate that instrument 104can be used to insert implant 192 using different approaches, implant192 is connected to instrument 104 by inserting peg 144 into cavity 202such that opening 146 is aligned with cavity 204, as shown in FIG. 16wherein implant 192 is configured for use in an OLIF 5-1 procedure. Asshown in FIG. 17, implant 192 includes screw holes 195 a, 195 b that areaccessible when peg 144 is inserted into cavity 202 and opening 146 isaligned with cavity 204 such that a fastener 205 a can be inserted intoand/or removed from hole 195 a and a fastener 205 b can be inserted intoand/or removed from hole 195 b when peg 144 is inserted into cavity 202and opening 146 is aligned with cavity 204. Knob 130 in the firstconfiguration when peg 144 is inserted into cavity 202 such that knob130 is able to translate shaft 124 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 and/or thedirection shown by arrow B in FIG. 1. Knob 130 is translated relative tosleeve 108 and handle 118 along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrowA in FIG. 1 to move shaft 124 from a first position in which matingsurface 134 is positioned entirely within passageway 116 to a secondposition in which mating surface 134 extends through opening 146 andinto cavity 204, as shown in FIG. 16. Knob 130 is rotated about axis X1in a first rotational direction, such as, for example, clockwise as knob130 is translated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 along axis X1 inthe direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 such that the male thread formof mating surface 134 mates with female thread form 204 a. When the malethread form of mating surface 134 mates with female thread form 204 a,further rotation of knob 130 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 inthe first rotational direction causes shaft 124 to translate axiallyrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown by arrow Ain FIG. 1. Because knob 130 is in the first configuration, knob 130 isrotatable relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 to translate shaft 124axially relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118. As shaft 124 translatesaxially relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown byarrow A in FIG. 1, knob 130 translates axially relative to plate 135 inthe direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 to move knob 130 toward plate135 such that extensions 160 are fully disposed in the grooves 158 andknob 130 is in the second configuration.

Implant 192 is guided into intervertebral space IS using instrument 104.Once implant 192 is selectively positioned within intervertebral spaceIS knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 about axisX1 in a second rotational direction, such as, for example,counterclockwise. Knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle118 about axis X1 in the second rotational direction with a forcesufficient to overcome the force of spring 182 to move knob 130 from thesecond configuration to the first configuration. As knob 130 moves fromthe second configuration to the first configuration, shaft 124 movesfrom the second position in which mating surface 134 extends throughopening 146 and into cavity 202 to the first position in which matingsurface 134 is positioned entirely within passageway 116. Peg 144 isremoved from cavity 202 when shaft 124 is in the first position.

It should be appreciated that instrument 104 can be used to insert otherimplants, in addition to implant 192, for use in a variety oftechniques, such as, for example, ALIF, OLIF 5-1, OLIF 2-5 and DLIF. Forexample, instrument 104 is shown in FIG. 1 connected to implant 102 toinsert implant 102 in connection with an DLIF procedure. Instrument 104is shown in FIG. 8 connected to implant 102 to insert implant 102 inconnection with an OLIF 2-5 procedure. Instrument 104 is shown in FIG. 9connected to implant 106 to insert implant 106 in connection with anOLIF 5-1 procedure. Instrument 104 is shown in FIG. 10 connected toimplant 106 to insert implant 106 in connection with an ALIF procedure.However, it is envisioned that instrument 104 can be connected to avariety of implants that are the same or similar to implants 102, 106,192 for use in a variety of different procedures and/or approaches.

In the embodiments discussed above, instrument 104 includes shaft 124and peg 144 that are inserted into cavities of implants to connectinstrument 104 to the implants. In other embodiments, implants aredisclosed that include projections or extensions that are receivedwithin cavities of an instrument to couple the implant to theinstrument. For example, in one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 18-21,surgical system 100 includes an implant 206 that is similar to implants102, 106, 192 and an instrument 208 that is similar to instrument 104and is configured to connect to implant 206 to insert implant 206 withina target area with a body of a patient, as discussed herein.

Implant 206 includes a body 210 having opposite first and secondvertebral engaging surfaces 212, 214. As shown in FIGS. 22-24 body 210of implant 206 can be provided with a variety of shapes and sizes. Anend surface 216 of body 210 extends from vertebral engaging surface 212to vertebral engaging surface 214. Implant 206 includes a peg 218extending from surface 216 and a peg 220 extending from surface 216 suchthat peg 220 is spaced apart from peg 218. Peg 218 includes a malethread form 218 a and peg 220 includes a male thread form 220 a.

Instrument 208 includes sleeve 108. Rather than having shaft 124positioned in passageway 116, instrument 208 includes an inner sleeve222 rotatably positioned within 116 such that sleeve 222 can translateaxially relative to axis X1 in opposite directions relative to sleeve108. In one embodiment, an outer surface of sleeve 222 directly engagessurface 114 when sleeve 222 is positioned in passageway 116. A proximalend of sleeve 222 is coupled to knob 130 to allow knob 130 to movesleeve 222 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the same manner asknob 130 moves shaft 124 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in theembodiments of instrument 104 discussed above. Engagement portion 136 ofinstrument 208 is similar to engagement portion 136 of instrument 104except that engagement portion 136 of instrument 208 includes anaperture 224 in place of peg 144. Sleeve 222 includes an inner surface226 that defines a female thread form 228 configured to engage malethread form 218 a or male thread form 220 a to couple implant 206 toinstrument 208, as discussed herein.

In assembly, operation and use, instrument 208 is coupled to an implant,such as, for example, implant 206, that is configured to be insertedinto a target site, such as, for example, intervertebral space IS. Inone embodiment, implant 206 is configured for use in an ALIF procedure.Implant 206 is connected to instrument 208 by inserting peg 218 intoaperture 224 such that opening 146 is aligned with peg 220. Knob 130 inthe first configuration when peg 218 is inserted into aperture 224 suchthat knob 130 is able to translate sleeve 222 relative to sleeve 108 andhandle 118 along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1and/or the direction shown by arrow B in FIG. 1. Knob 130 is translatedrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 along axis X1 in the directionshown by arrow A in FIG. 1 to move sleeve 222 from a first position inwhich sleeve 222 is positioned entirely within passageway 116 to asecond position in which sleeve 222 extends through opening 146 andengages peg 220.

Knob 130 is rotated about axis X1 in a first rotational direction, suchas, for example, clockwise as knob 130 is translated relative to sleeve108 and handle 118 along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrow A inFIG. 1 such that the female thread form 228 mates with male thread form220 a. When female thread form 228 mates with male thread form 220 a,further rotation of knob 130 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 inthe first rotational direction causes sleeve 222 to translate axiallyrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown by arrow Ain FIG. 1. Because knob 130 is in the first configuration, knob 130 isrotatable relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 to translate sleeve 222axially relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118. As sleeve 222 translatesaxially relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown byarrow A in FIG. 1, knob 130 translates axially relative to plate 135 inthe direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 to move knob 130 toward plate135 such that extensions 160 are fully disposed in the grooves 158 andknob 130 is in the second configuration.

Implant 206 is guided into intervertebral space IS using instrument 208.Once implant 206 is selectively positioned within intervertebral spaceIS knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 about axisX1 in a second rotational direction, such as, for example,counterclockwise. Knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle118 about axis X1 in the second rotational direction with a forcesufficient to overcome the force of spring 182 to move knob 130 from thesecond configuration to the first configuration. As knob 130 moves fromthe second configuration to the first configuration, sleeve 222 movesfrom the second position in which sleeve 222 extends through opening 146and engages peg 220 to the first position in which sleeve 222 ispositioned entirely within passageway 116.

As shown above, instrument 208 was used to insert implant 206 inconnection with an ALIF procedure. To demonstrate that instrument 208can be used to insert implant 206 using different approaches, implant206 is connected to instrument 208 by inserting peg 220 into aperture224 such that opening 146 is aligned with peg 218. Knob 130 in the firstconfiguration when peg 220 is inserted into aperture 224 such that knob130 is able to translate sleeve 222 relative to sleeve 108 and handle118 along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 and/or thedirection shown by arrow B in FIG. 1. Knob 130 is translated relative tosleeve 108 and handle 118 along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrowA in FIG. 1 to move sleeve 222 from a first position in which sleeve 222is positioned entirely within passageway 116 to a second position inwhich sleeve 22 extends through opening 146 and engages peg 218. Knob130 is rotated about axis X1 in a first rotational direction, such as,for example, clockwise as knob 130 is translated relative to sleeve 108and handle 118 along axis X1 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1such that female thread form 228 mates with male thread form 218 a. Whenthe female thread form 228 mates with male thread form 218 a, furtherrotation of knob 130 relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the firstrotational direction causes sleeve 222 to translate axially relative tosleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 1.Because knob 130 is in the first configuration, knob 130 is rotatablerelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 to translate sleeve 222 axiallyrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118. As sleeve 222 translates axiallyrelative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 in the direction shown by arrow Ain FIG. 1, knob 130 translates axially relative to plate 135 in thedirection shown by arrow A in FIG. 1 to move knob 130 toward plate 135such that extensions 160 are fully disposed in the grooves 158 and knob130 is in the second configuration.

Implant 206 is guided into intervertebral space IS using instrument 208.Once implant 206 is selectively positioned within intervertebral spaceIS knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle 118 about axisX1 in a second rotational direction, such as, for example,counterclockwise. Knob 130 is rotated relative to sleeve 108 and handle118 about axis X1 in the second rotational direction with a forcesufficient to overcome the force of spring 182 to move knob 130 from thesecond configuration to the first configuration. As knob 130 moves fromthe second configuration to the first configuration, shaft 124 movesfrom the second position in which sleeve 222 extends through opening 146to the first position in which sleeve 222 is positioned entirely withinpassageway 116. It should be appreciated that instrument 208 can be usedto insert other implants, in addition to implant 206, for use in avariety of techniques, such as, for example, ALIF, OLIF 5-1, OLIF 2-5and DLIF.

As discussed above, engagement portion 136 can be variously configuredfor engagement with a plurality of different implants. That is, theconfiguration of engagement portion 136 can be adapted to match theconfiguration of an implant. For example, in one embodiment, shown inFIG. 12, engagement surface 138 is concavely curved from end 140 to end142. In some embodiments, engagement surface 138 is continuously curvedfrom end 140 to end 142 and/or engagement surface 138 has a continuousradius of curvature. The configuration of engagement surface 138 in FIG.11 could be used in connection with implants that include a convexlycurved surface that engages engagement surface 138, such as, forexample, engagement surface 230 of implant 192. In another embodiment,shown in FIG. 13, engagement surface 138 includes a first planar portion138 a, a second planar portion 138 b and a third planar portion 138 cbetween portion 138 a and portion 138 b. Peg 144 extends from portion138 a and opening 146 extends through portion 138 b. Portion 138 cextends at an acute angle relative to portion 138 a and portion 138 c.In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 25, engagement surface 138 is convexlycurved from end 140 to end 142. In some embodiments, engagement surface138 is continuously curved from end 140 to end 142 and/or engagementsurface 138 has a continuous radius of curvature. The configuration ofengagement surface 138 in FIG. 25 could be used in connection with animplant 232 that include a concavely curved surface 234, FIG. 26,configured for engagement with engagement surface 138, as shown in FIG.27.

The implants discussed above each include two threaded cavities along anengagement surface (e.g., cavities 202, 204 along surface 200) fordisposal of peg 144 and shaft 124, respectively. However, it isenvisioned that the implants discussed herein may include three or morethreaded cavities along an engagement surface. In some embodiments, thethreaded cavities are all on an arc path defined by the engagementsurface. For example, cavities 202, 204 of implant 192 are on an arcpath of surface 200 and coincide with an arc center of surface 200. Itis envisioned that providing an implant with at least three cavitieswill allow a medical practitioner greater options for connecting animplant to instrument 104. For example, the three of more cavities allowinstrument 104 to be attached to the implant at different angles or atthe same angle in different ways. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 28,an implant 238 includes an anterior surface 238 that includes spacedapart threaded cavities 240, 242, 244 along an arc path of surface 238.In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 29, peg 144 is disposed in cavity 242and end 132 of shaft 124 is disposed in cavity 240 such that an axis X2of implant 236 is disposed at an angle α1 relative to axis X1. In oneembodiment, shown in FIG. 30, peg 144 is disposed in cavity 244 and end132 of shaft 124 is disposed in cavity 242 such that axis X2 of implant236 is disposed at an angle α2 relative to axis X1. In one embodiment,shown in FIG. 31, peg 144 is disposed in cavity 240 and end 132 of shaft124 is disposed in cavity 242 such that axis X2 of implant 236 isdisposed at angle α2 relative to axis X1. In one embodiment, shown inFIG. 32, peg 144 is disposed in cavity 242 and end 132 of shaft 124 isdisposed in cavity 244 such that axis X2 parallel and/or coaxial withaxis X1. In some embodiments, angle α1 is about 40 degrees and angle α2is about 20 degrees.

In some embodiments, shown in FIGS. 33-35, engagement surface 138includes a gap 246 between end 140 and end 142. That is, end 142 isspaced apart from end 140 by gap 246. In one embodiment, shown in FIG.33, gap 246 is configured for disposal of a plate 248 that is coupled toan implant 250 to allow implant 250 to be inserted with instrument 104while plate 248 is attached to implant 250. That is, plate 248 can becoupled to implant 250 before instrument 104 engages implant 250 todeliver implant 250 to a target site. In one embodiment, shown in FIG.34, gap 246 is configured to allow access to a screw hole 252 of animplant 254 while instrument 104 is attached to implant 254. That is, afastener can be inserted through hole 252 and into tissue, such as, forexample, bone while instrument 104 is attached to implant 254, to secureimplant 254 relative to tissue. Once the fastener is inserted throughhole 252 and into tissue, instrument 104 can be removed from implant254. Likewise, in one embodiment, shown in FIG. 35, gap 246 isconfigured to allow access to a screw hole 256 of an implant 258 whileinstrument 104 is attached to implant 258. That is, a fastener can beinserted through hole 256 and into tissue, such as, for example, bonewhile instrument 104 is attached to implant 258, to secure implant 258relative to tissue. Once the fastener is inserted through hole 256 andinto tissue, instrument 104 can be removed from implant 258.

As discussed herein, instrument 104 can be used for insertion of aplurality of different implants. In one embodiment, shown in FIGS.36-41, system 100 includes an implant 260 having a solid body 262extending along a longitudinal axis X3 between an end wall 264 and anopposite end wall 266. Body 262 includes a side wall 268 and a side wall270 opposite side wall 268. Walls 268, 270 each extend from wall 264 towall 266. In some embodiments, at least one of walls 268, 270 is planarfrom wall 264 to wall 270. In some embodiments, at least one of walls268, 270 extends parallel to axis X3. In some embodiments, at least oneof walls 264, 266 is convexly curved from wall 268 to wall 270. In someembodiments, at least one of walls 264, 266 has a continuous radius ofcurvature from wall 268 to wall 270. However, it is envisioned thatwalls 264, 266 can be variously shaped and/or curved to match the shapeand/or curve of an engagement surface of an instrument that engages oneof walls 264, 266, such as, for example, engagement surface 138 ofinstrument 104. In some embodiments, walls 264, 266 each have a maximumlength that is less than maximum lengths of walls 268, 270. In someembodiments, wall 264 extends perpendicular to wall 268, wall 268extends perpendicular to wall 266, wall 266 extends perpendicular towall 270 and wall 270 extends perpendicular to wall 264.

Inner surfaces of walls 264, 266, 268, 270 define a cavity 272. In someembodiments, body 262 includes a scaffold 274 positioned within cavity272. Scaffold 274 includes a top wall 276 and an opposite bottom wall278. Wall 278 is connected to wall 276 by a plurality of spaced apartribs 280. Scaffold 274 is connected to wall 268 by a support 282 and isconnected to wall 270 by a support 284. Scaffold 274 is spaced apartfrom wall 264 and wall 266 and is only connected to walls 268, 270 bysupports 282, 284. Scaffold 274 includes an opening 286 that extendsthrough wall 276 and an opening 288 that extends through wall 278.Openings 286, 288 extend perpendicular to axis X3. Scaffold 274 includesa plurality of apertures 290 extending through a thickness of wall 276and a plurality of apertures 292 extending through a thickness of wall278. In some embodiments, body 262 includes a window 294 that extendsthrough wall 268 and a window 296 that extends through wall 270. In someembodiments, apertures 290, apertures 292, window 294 and/or window 296may be variously shaped, such as, for example, oval, oblong, triangular,square, polygonal, irregular, uniform, non-uniform, offset, staggered,undulating, arcuate, variable and/or tapered. In some embodiments, wall268 and/or wall 270 may be disposed at alternate orientations, relativeto axis X3, such as, for example, transverse, perpendicular and/or otherangular orientations such as acute or obtuse, co-axial and/or may beoffset or staggered. In some embodiments, apertures 290 and/or apertures292 may be variously shaped, such as, for example, circular, oval,oblong, triangular, square, hexagonal, polygonal, honeycomb-shaped,irregular, uniform, non-uniform, offset, staggered, undulating, arcuate,variable and/or tapered.

Body 262 includes a cavity 298 and a cavity 300 that is spaced apartfrom cavity 298. Cavities 298, 300 each extend into wall 264. In someembodiments, cavity 298 is in communication with a passageway 302defined by a cylindrical wall 304 of body 262 that is coupled to wall264, as best shown in FIG. 39. Wall 304 includes a closed end 306 suchthat cavity 298 and passageway 302 are not in communication with cavity272. That is, an object must be inserted through wall 264 to be insertedinto cavity 298 and passageway 302. Likewise, cavity 300 is incommunication with a passageway 308 defined by a cylindrical wall 310 ofbody 262 that is coupled to wall 264, as best shown in FIG. 39. Wall 310includes a closed end 312 such that cavity 300 and passageway 308 arenot in communication with cavity 272. That is, an object must beinserted through wall 264 to be inserted into cavity 300 and passageway308. Cavities 298, 300 and passageways 302, 308 are configured forengagement with components of an instrument, such as, for example, peg144 and shaft 124 of instrument 104, as discussed herein. As such,passageways 302, 308 each include a female thread form configured tomate with the male thread form of mating surface 134 to connectinstrument with implant 260, as discussed herein. Walls 304, 310 arepermanently fixed relative to body 262. That is, walls 304, 310 areincapable of moving relative to walls 264, 266, 268, 270 such that wall304 does not move when peg 144 is positioned in passageway 308 to allowmating surface 134 to engage the female thread form of passageway 302and/or wall 310 does not move when peg 144 is positioned in passageway302 to allow mating surface to engage the female thread form ofpassageway 308. Indeed, having walls 304, 310 permanently fixed relativeto body 262 allows instrument 104 to be manipulated relative to implant260 to couple implant 260 to instrument 104, as discussed herein. Incontrast to systems that include instruments that are configured to movean implant relative to the instrument when the implant is coupled to theinstrument, implant 260 will be fixed to instrument 104 when instrument104 is connected to implant 260. As such, a medical practitioner mustmanually manipulate handle 118 while implant 260 is fixed to instrument104 to selectively position implant 260 within a patient. In someembodiments, cavity 298, cavity 300, passageway 302, passageway 308,opening 320, opening 322 and/or passageway 324 may be disposed atalternate orientations, relative to axis X3, such as, for example,transverse, perpendicular and/or other angular orientations such asacute or obtuse, co-axial and/or may be offset or staggered.

In some embodiments, body 262 includes a tunnel 314 having an end 316that is fixed to wall 264 and an opposite end 318. Tunnel 314 extends atan oblique angle relative to axis X3 and is positioned between cavity298 and cavity 300 and includes an opening 320 that extends through end316 and wall 264 and an opening 322 that extends through end 318. Tunnel314 extends continuously from opening 320 to opening 322 such thattunnel 314 is free of any gaps or openings between opening 320 andopening 322 and a bore, such as, for example, a passageway 324 definedby an inner surface of tunnel 314 is not in communication with cavity272, cavity 298, cavity 300, passageway 304 or passageway 308.Passageway 324 is configured for disposal of a fastener, such as, forexample, a bone screw such that the bone screw extends through openings320, 322 for engagement with tissue, such as, for example, bone, asdiscussed herein. It is envisioned that body 262 can include one oremore tunnels in addition to tunnel 314 wherein the additional tunnelsare each configured for disposal of an additional bone screw such thatimplant 260 can be attached to bone using more than one bone screw. Insome embodiments, tunnel 314 may be disposed at alternate orientations,relative to axis X3, such as, for example, parallel, transverse,perpendicular and/or other angular orientations such as acute or obtuse,co-axial and/or may be offset or staggered.

A core 326 is positioned in cavity 272 such that core 326 surroundsscaffold 274 and is viewable through windows 294, 296. Core 326 includesa body 328 having a lattice configuration that reduces stiffness andopacity, while maintaining strength. Body 328 extends from an innersurface of wall 264 to scaffold 274, from an inner surface of wall 266to scaffold 274, from an inner surface of wall 268 to scaffold 274 andfrom an inner surface of wall 270 to scaffold 274. In some embodiments,an uppermost surface of body 328 is flush with an uppermost surface ofbody 262 and a lowermost surface of body 328 is flush with a lowermostsurface of body 262 when core 326 is positioned within cavity 272. Core326 extends a central channel 330 that extends through a thickness ofbody 328 defined by the distance between the uppermost and lowermostsurfaces of body 328. Channel 330 is aligned with openings 286, 288 whencore 326 is positioned within cavity 272. In some embodiments, core 326is fused with body 262. In some embodiments, core 326 is welded to body262. In some embodiments, core 326 is integrally and/or monolithicallyformed with body 262.

In some embodiments, the lattice configuration of body 328 is a diamondlattice the provides exceptional buildability, strength, reducedinternal stress and fits within a variety of spinal implant typegeometries. That is, the lattice configuration of body 328 is formedfrom a plurality of diamonds 332 that are coupled together to form body328. The parameters of diamonds 332 are shown in FIG. 40B. However, itis envisioned that the parameters of diamonds 332 can be altered bychanging x, y and z values of diamonds 332 in a user interface, as shownin FIG. 40C. In some embodiments, the lattice configuration of body 328is formed using 3D printing.

Implant 26 includes a cap 334 coupled to top ends of walls 264, 266,268, 270 and scaffold 274 and a cap 336 coupled to opposite bottom endsof walls 264, 266, 268, 270 and scaffold 274. Cap 334 includes anopening 338 that is aligned with opening 286 and channel 330 when cap334 is coupled to bodies 262, 328 and cap 336 includes an opening 340that is aligned with opening 288 and channel when cap 336 is coupled tobodies 262, 328. Opening 338 is surrounded by a plurality of apertures342 and opening 340 is surrounded by a plurality of apertures 344.Apertures 342 are aligned with apertures 290 when cap 334 is coupled tobodies 262, 328 and apertures 344 are aligned with apertures 292 whencap 336 is coupled to bodies 262, 328. In some embodiments, apertures342 have the same size and shape as apertures 290 and/or apertures 344have the same size and shape as apertures 292. In some embodiments, caps334, 336 are fused with body 262 and/or body 328. In some embodiments,caps 334, 336 are welded to body 262 and/or body 328. In someembodiments, caps 334, 336 are integrally and/or monolithically formedwith body 262 and/or body 328.

Wall 276 and cap 334 define a ledge 346 that extends from ribs 280 ofscaffold 274 to openings 286, 338 and wall 279 and cap 336 define aledge 348 that extends from ribs 280 to openings 288, 340. Ledge 346extends circumferentially about openings 286, 338 such that ledge 246surrounds openings 286, 338. Likewise, ledge 348 extendscircumferentially about openings 288, 340 such that ledge 246 surroundsopenings 288, 340. Implant 260 includes a cavity 350 defined by innersurfaces of ribs 280. Openings 286, 288, 338, 340 each have a maximumdiameter D1 that is less than a maximum diameter D2 of cavity 350, asshown in FIG. 38. Cavity 350 defines a graft containment area. Inparticular, it is envisioned that a material, such as, for example, bonegraft BG can be inserted through openings 286, 338 and into cavity 350or through openings 388, 340 and into cavity 350 to position bone graftBG between ledge 346 and ledge 348, as shown in FIG. 36.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 42-47, system 100 includes an implant352 that is similar to implant 260. Wall 264 of implant 352 includes arecessed portion 354 configured for disposal of at least a portion ofengagement portion 136 of instrument 104. Implant 352 further includes athreaded bore 356 positioned between wall 268 of implant 352 and cavity298 of implant 352 and a threaded bore 358 positioned between wall 270of implant 352 and cavity 300 of implant 352. Bores 356, 358 are eachconfigured for disposal of a fastener, such as, for example, a bonescrew. Bores 356, 358 each extend at an oblique angle relative to axisX3 such that bores 356, 358 each extend through ledges 346, 348 ofimplant 352. In some embodiments, bore 356 includes an opening 356 athat extends through cap 334 of implant 352 and an opening 356 b thatextends through cap 336 of implant 352 and wall 264 of implant 352. Bore356 is free of any gaps or openings such that bore 356 is not incommunication with cavity 350 of implant 352. In some embodiments, bore358 includes an opening 358 a that extends through cap 334 of implant352 and an opening 358 b that extends through cap 336 of implant 352 andwall 264 of implant 352. Bore 358 is free of any gaps or openings suchthat bore 358 is not in communication with cavity 350 of implant 352. Insome embodiments, walls 264, 266 of implant 352 each have a maximumlength that is greater than maximum lengths of walls 268, 270 of implant352. In some embodiments, implant 352 is rounded at an interface betweenwall 264 of implant 352 and wall 268 of implant 352, at an interfacebetween wall 268 of implant 352 and wall 266 of implant 352, at aninterface between wall 266 of implant 352 and wall 270 of implant 352and at an interface between wall 270 of implant 352 and wall 264 ofimplant 352.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 48-53, system 100 includes an implant360 that is similar to implants 260, 352. Wall 268 of implant 360 has aheight that is greater than a height of side wall 270 of implant 360such that cap 334 of implant 360 is positioned at an angle α3 relativeto cap 336 of implant 360, as shown in FIG. 49. Angle α3 providesimplant 360 with a wedge-like shape. In some embodiments, angle α3 isbetween 0 degrees and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α3 isbetween 1 degree and 89 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α3 isbetween 1 degree and 45 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α3 isbetween 10 degrees and 45 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α3 isbetween 10 degrees and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α3 isbetween 15 degrees and 25 degrees. However, it is envisioned that angleα3 can be selected to be any angle that achieves proper lordosis whenimplant 360 is positioned between adjacent vertebrae. In someembodiments, walls 264, 266 of implant 360 each have a maximum lengththat is less than maximum lengths of walls 268, 270 of implant 360. Insome embodiments, wall 264 of implant 360 extends at an acute anglerelative to wall 268 of implant 360, wall 268 of implant 360 extends atan acute angle relative to wall 266 of implant 360, wall 266 of implant360 extends at an acute angle relative to wall 270 of implant 360 andwall 270 of implant 360 extends at an acute angle relative to wall 264of implant 360.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 54-59, system 100 includes an implant362 that is similar to implants 260, 352, 360. Wall 268 of implant 362has a height that is greater than a height of side wall 270 of implant362 such that cap 334 of implant 362 is positioned at an angle α4relative to cap 336 of implant 362, as shown in FIG. 55. Angle α4 isless than angle α3. In some embodiments, angle α4 is between 0 degreesand 15 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α4 is between 1 degree and 15degrees. In some embodiments, angle α4 is between 1 degree and 10degrees. In some embodiments, angle α4 is between 1 degree and 5degrees. However, it is envisioned that angle α4 can be selected to beany angle that achieves proper lordosis when implant 362 is positionedbetween adjacent vertebrae. In some embodiments, walls 264, 266 ofimplant 362 each have a maximum length that is less than maximum lengthsof walls 268, 270 of implant 362. In some embodiments, wall 264 ofimplant 362 extends at an acute angle relative to wall 268 of implant362, wall 268 of implant 362 extends at an acute angle relative to wall266 of implant 362, wall 266 of implant 362 extends at an acute anglerelative to wall 270 of implant 362 and wall 270 of implant 362 extendsat an acute angle relative to wall 264 of implant 362.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 60-65, system 100 includes an implant364 that is similar to implants 260, 352, 360, 362. Wall 264 of implant364 includes a recessed portion 366 configured for disposal of at leasta portion of engagement portion 136 of instrument 104. Implant 364further includes a threaded bore 356 positioned between wall 268 ofimplant 364 and cavity 298 of implant 364 and a threaded bore 358positioned between wall 270 of implant 364 and cavity 300 of implant364. Bores 356, 358 are each configured for disposal of a fastener, suchas, for example, a bone screw. Bores 356, 358 each extend at an obliqueangle relative to axis X3 such that bores 356, 358 each extend throughledges 346, 348 of implant 364. In some embodiments, bore 356 includesan opening 356 a that extends through cap 334 of implant 364 and anopening 356 b that extends through wall 264 of implant 364. Bore 356 isfree of any gaps or openings such that bore 356 is not in communicationwith cavity 350. In some embodiments, bore 358 includes an opening 358 athat extends through cap 334 of implant 364 and an opening 358 b thatextends through wall 264 of implant 364. Bore 358 is free of any gaps oropenings such that bore 358 is not in communication with cavity 350. Insome embodiments, neither bore 356 nor bore 358 extend through cap 336of implant 364, as shown in FIG. 63. In some embodiments, walls 264, 266of implant 364 each have a maximum length that is greater than maximumlengths of walls 268, 270 of implant 364. In some embodiments, implant364 is rounded at an interface between wall 264 of implant 364 and wall268 of implant 364, at an interface between wall 268 of implant 364 andwall 266 of implant 364, at an interface between wall 266 of implant 364and wall 270 of implant 364 and at an interface between wall 270 ofimplant 364 and wall 264 of implant 364. In some embodiments, walls 264,266, 268, 270 of implant 364 each have a height from cap 334 of implant364 to cap 336 of implant 364 that is greater than heights of walls 264,266, 268, 270 of implant 352 from cap 334 of implant 352 to cap 336 ofimplant 352.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 66-71, system 100 includes an implant368 that is similar to implants 260, 352, 360, 362, 364. Wall 268 ofimplant 368 has a height that is greater than a height of side wall 270of implant 368 such that cap 334 of implant 368 is positioned at anangle α5 relative to cap 336 of implant 368, as shown in FIG. 67. Angleα5 provides implant 368 with a wedge-like shape. In some embodiments,angle α5 is between 0 degrees and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, angleα5 is between 1 degree and 89 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α5 isbetween 1 degree and 45 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α5 isbetween 10 degrees and 45 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α5 isbetween 10 degrees and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α5 isbetween 15 degrees and 25 degrees. However, it is envisioned that angleα5 can be selected to be any angle that achieves proper lordosis whenimplant 368 is positioned between adjacent vertebrae. In someembodiments, walls 264, 266 of implant 368 each have a maximum lengththat is less than maximum lengths of walls 268, 270 of implant 368. Insome embodiments, wall 264 of implant 368 extends at an acute anglerelative to wall 268 of implant 368, wall 268 of implant 368 extends atan acute angle relative to wall 266 of implant 368, wall 266 of implant368 extends at an acute angle relative to wall 270 of implant 368 andwall 270 of implant 368 extends at an acute angle relative to wall 264of implant 368. In some embodiments, wall 264 of implant 368 includes aplanar portion 264 a, a planar portion 264 b and a planar portion 264 cpositioned between planar portion 264 a and planar portion 264 b. Planarportion 264 b extends at an acute angle relative to planar portion 264 aand planar portion 264 c extends at an acute angle relative to planarportion 264 b. In some embodiments, planar portions 264 a, 264 b, 264 care configured for engagement with planar portions 138 a, 138 b, 138 cof instrument 104 shown in FIG. 13.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 72-77, system 100 includes an implant370 that is similar to implants 260, 352, 360, 362, 364, 368. Side wall268 of implant 370 has a height that is greater than a height of sidewall 270 of implant 370 such that cap 334 of implant 370 is positionedat an angle α6 relative to cap 336 of implant 370, as shown in FIG. 73.Angle α6 provides implant 370 with a wedge-like shape. Angle α6 is lessthan angle α5. In some embodiments, angle α6 is between 0 degrees and 15degrees. In some embodiments, angle α6 is between 1 degree and 15degrees. In some embodiments, angle α6 is between 1 degree and 10degrees. In some embodiments, angle α6 is between 1 degree and 5degrees. However, it is envisioned that angle α6 can be selected to beany angle that achieves proper lordosis when implant 370 is positionedbetween adjacent vertebrae. In some embodiments, walls 264, 266 ofimplant 370 each have a maximum length that is less than maximum lengthsof walls 268, 270 of implant 370. In some embodiments, wall 264 ofimplant 370 extends at an acute angle relative to wall 268 of implant370, wall 268 of implant 370 extends at an acute angle relative to wall266 of implant 370, wall 266 of implant 370 extends at an acute anglerelative to wall 270 of implant 370 and wall 270 of implant 370 extendsat an acute angle relative to wall 264 of implant 370. In someembodiments, wall 264 of implant 370 includes a planar portion 264 a, aplanar portion 264 b and a planar portion 264 c positioned betweenplanar portion 264 a and planar portion 264 b. Planar portion 264 bextends at an acute angle relative to planar portion 264 a and planarportion 264 c extends at an acute angle relative to planar portion 264b. In some embodiments, planar portions 264 a, 264 b, 264 c areconfigured for engagement with planar portions 138 a, 138 b, 138 c ofinstrument 104 shown in FIG. 13.

In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 78-83, system 100 includes an implant372 that is similar to implants 260, 352, 360, 362, 364, 368, 370. Wall264 of implant 372 includes a recessed portion 354 configured fordisposal of at least a portion of engagement portion 136 of instrument104. Implant 372 further includes a threaded bore 356 positioned betweenwall 268 of implant 372 and cavity 298 of implant 372 and a threadedbore 358 positioned between wall 270 of implant 372 and cavity 300 ofimplant 372. Bores 356, 358 are each configured for disposal of afastener, such as, for example, a bone screw. Bores 356, 358 each extendat an oblique angle relative to axis X3 such that bores 356, 358 eachextend through ledges 346, 348 of implant 372. In some embodiments, bore356 includes an opening 356 a that extends through cap 334 of implant372 and an opening 356 b that extends through cap 336 of implant 372 andwall 264 of implant 372. Bore 356 is free of any gaps or openings suchthat bore 356 is not in communication with cavity 350 of implant 372. Insome embodiments, bore 358 includes an opening 358 a that extendsthrough cap 334 of implant 372 and an opening 358 b that extends throughcap 336 of implant 372 and wall 264 of implant 372. Bore 358 is free ofany gaps or openings such that bore 358 is not in communication withcavity 350 of implant 372. In some embodiments, walls 264, 266 ofimplant 372 each have a maximum length that is greater than maximumlengths of walls 268, 270 of implant 372. In some embodiments, implant372 is rounded at an interface between wall 264 of implant 372 and wall268 of implant 372, at an interface between wall 268 of implant 372 andwall 266 of implant 372, at an interface between wall 266 of implant 372and wall 270 of implant 372 and at an interface between wall 270 ofimplant 372 and wall 264 of implant 372.

It will be understood that various modifications may be made to theembodiments disclosed herein. Therefore, the above description shouldnot be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplification of thevarious embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision othermodifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. A spinal implant comprising: a body comprisingopposite first and second end walls and opposite first and second sidewalls, the side walls each extending from the first end wall to thesecond end wall; a first cap coupled to top ends of the walls; and asecond cap coupled to bottom ends of the walls, the implant comprisingan opening extending through the caps such that the first cap defines afirst ledge extending from at least one of the walls to the opening andthe second cap defines a second ledge extending from at least one of thewalls to the opening, inner surfaces of the walls defining a cavity, theimplant comprising a core positioned in the cavity, the openingextending through a thickness of the core.
 2. The spinal implant recitedin claim 1, wherein inner surfaces of the walls define a cavity, thecavity having a maximum diameter that is greater than a maximum diameterof the opening.
 3. The spinal implant recited in claim 1, wherein atleast one of the caps includes a plurality of apertures.
 4. The spinalimplant recited in claim 1, wherein the ledges each extendcircumferentially about the opening.
 5. The spinal implant recited inclaim 1, wherein inner surfaces of the walls define a cavity, theimplant comprising a core positioned in the cavity, the openingextending through a thickness of the core.
 6. The spinal implant recitedin claim 1, wherein the core has a lattice configuration.
 7. The spinalimplant recited in claim 1, wherein the core is fused together with thebody and the caps.
 8. The spinal implant recited in claim 1, wherein thebody comprises an inner surface defining a bore, the bore extendingthrough the first end wall.
 9. The spinal implant recited in claim 8,wherein the bore is enclosed between the first and second ledges by theinner surface.
 10. The spinal implant recited in claim 8, wherein thebore is not in communication with the opening.
 11. The spinal implantrecited in claim 8, wherein the bore extends through at least one of theledges.
 12. The spinal implant recited in claim 8, wherein the bore is afirst bore and the body comprises a second inner surface defining asecond bore and a third inner surface defining a third bore positionedbetween the first bore and the second bore, the second bore and thethird bore extending through the first end wall.
 13. The spinal implantrecited in claim 12, wherein the cavity is a first cavity, the bodycomprising a second cavity positioned between the first bore and thethird bore and a third cavity positioned between the second bore and thethird bore.
 14. The spinal implant recited in claim 13, wherein thesecond and third cavities are threaded.
 15. The spinal implant recitedin claim 1, further comprising bone graft positioned between the firstledge and the second ledge.
 16. A spinal implant comprising: a bodycomprising opposite first and second end walls and opposite first andsecond side walls, the side walls each extending from the first end wallto the second end wall, the first side wall defining a first window, thesecond side wall defining a second window, inner surfaces of the wallsdefining a first cavity, the body comprising an inner surface defining abore, the body comprising spaced apart second and third cavities, thebore being positioned between the second and third cavities, the secondand third cavities being threaded; a core positioned in the first cavitysuch that the core is viewable through the windows; a first cap coupledto top ends of the walls; and a second cap coupled to bottom ends of thewalls, the implant comprising an opening extending through the caps suchthat the first cap defines a first ledge extending from the walls to theopening and the second cap defines a second ledge extending from thewalls to the opening.
 17. The spinal implant recited in claim 16,wherein the first cavity has a maximum diameter that is greater than amaximum diameter of the opening.
 18. The spinal implant recited in claim16, wherein the core is fused together with the body and the caps.
 19. Aspinal implant comprising: a body comprising opposite first and secondend walls and opposite first and second side walls, the side walls eachextending from the first end wall to the second end wall; a first capcoupled to top ends of the walls; and a second cap coupled to bottomends of the walls, the implant comprising an opening extending throughthe caps such that the first cap defines a first ledge extending from atleast one of the walls to the opening and the second cap defines asecond ledge extending from at least one of the walls to the opening,the body comprising an inner surface defining a bore, the bore extendingthrough the first end wall, the bore being enclosed between the firstand second ledges by the inner surface.
 20. The spinal implant recitedin claim 19, wherein the bore is not in communication with the opening.21. The spinal implant recited in claim 19, wherein the bore is a firstbore and the body comprises a second inner surface defining a secondbore and a third inner surface defining a third bore positioned betweenthe first bore and the second bore, the second bore and the third boreextending through the first end wall.